The Infrafamilial Taxonomy of African Sapindaceae
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Date
2017
Authors
Onuminya, T. O.
Ogundipe, O.T.
Olowokudejo, J.D.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Lagos
Abstract
A brief historical taxonomic sketch as well as distribution of Sapindaceae in West Africa, Cameroon and Madagascar is presented based on extensive study of herbaria and field collections. The infrafamilial taxonomy of the family Sapindaceae was re-examined using both qualitative and quantitative morphological characters. A total of 17 vegetative and 24 reproductive characters were used in the description of the family. 2 subfamilies were recognised; a strongly predominant subfamily – Sapindoideae – with 8 tribes and subfamily – Dodonaeoideae – comprising 3 tribes. A total of 28 genera and 118 species were recorded in the study area. The most diverse genera are Allophylus with 20 species followed by Placodiscus with 17 species and Chytranthus with 14 species. Members of the family are characterised by compound leaves (paripinnate, imparipinnate or trifoliate); flowers are in spirits, fruits occur as berry, drupe or capsule and contain seed with white or orange aril. A descriptive key for the identification of each genus is given.
Description
Keywords
Africa , life-forms , morphology , systematic , Sapindaceae , tribes
Citation
Onuminya, T. O., Ogundipe, O. T. and Olowokudejo, J. D. (2017). The Infrafamilial Taxonomy of African Sapindaceae. Journal of Scientific Research and Development 17: 34-39